1980 Pontiac Firebird vs. 2006 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,300 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (148 HP) has 13 more horse power than 1980 Pontiac Firebird. (135 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1980 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Pontiac Firebird weights approximately 85 kg more than 2006 Volkswagen Passat.
Because 1980 Pontiac Firebird is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1980 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Passat, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. 1980 Pontiac Firebird has automatic transmission and 2006 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2006 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Pontiac Firebird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Pontiac Firebird | 2006 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Pontiac | Volkswagen |
| Model | Firebird | Passat |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4300 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine Bore Size | 95 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2720 mm |
